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stac_describe_scene

Retrieve comprehensive details for a scene from a prior search, including all assets, bands, CRS, and properties, to evaluate suitability before downloading.

Instructions

Get detailed information about a specific scene.

Shows all available assets/bands, properties, CRS, and download URLs. The scene must have been returned by a previous stac_search call.

Args: scene_id: Scene identifier from a search result (use scene_id from stac_search) output_mode: Response format - "json" (default) or "text"

Returns: JSON with full scene details including all assets, CRS, and properties

Tips for LLMs: - Call this after stac_search to see available bands before downloading - The assets list shows every downloadable band and its resolution - Use the band keys (e.g., red, nir, scl) in stac_download_bands - Check cloud_cover to decide if the scene is usable

Example: detail = await stac_describe_scene( scene_id="S2B_MSIL2A_20240715T105629_N0510_R094_T31UCR_20240715T143301" )

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
scene_idYes
output_modeNojson
Behavior3/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

No annotations provided, so description carries full burden. It explains what is returned but does not disclose behavioral traits like read-only nature, authentication, or error handling. Adequate but not thorough.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

Well-structured with purpose, args, returns, tips, and example. No unnecessary sentences; every part adds value.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness5/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

For a tool with 2 parameters and no output schema, the description covers purpose, inputs, expected output, and usage context. Includes tips linking to stac_download_bands, making it complete.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters5/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

With 0% schema description coverage, the description compensates fully: explains scene_id as a search result identifier and output_mode as format with default. Adds meaning beyond the schema.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose5/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the verb 'Get detailed information' and the resource 'scene'. It distinguishes from siblings like stac_describe_collection and stac_search by focusing on a single scene's details.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines4/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

Explicitly states prerequisite ('scene must have been returned by a previous stac_search call') and provides context for when to use ('after stac_search'). Does not explicitly exclude scenarios but offers clear guidance.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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